Architecture &AMP; Engineering

Whole Earth Montessori School

A new 3,900-square-foot Montessori school building in Bothell was inspired the trinomial cube, a Montessori teaching tool made of up wooden blocks.

The building is on the Whole Earth Montessori campus, at 2930 228th St. S.E.

Each of the 27 blocks that compose a trinomial cube is represented by a window in the new building. Windows were placed at the corners to dematerialize the structure’s simple massing and bring light in from all sides. The largest window is located on the north side because that side receives passive light, and won’t add excessive heat gain or glare.

Located in a creekside meadow, the building had to sit on an existing foundation because its site is classified as a critical habitat where no new development is allowed. Staircases were placed on the outside of the building to maximize interior space, while legally remaining within the original specified footprint.

In addition to being energy efficient, the building’s large windows, generous overhangs and exterior staircases keep the students engaged with nature.

The use of primary colors, including the yellow entry door, also reflects the school’s curriculum.

Owner: Whole Earth Montessori

Architect: Paul Michael Davis Architects

Contractor: Inglewood Construction

Structural engineer: Smith Company Structural Engineers

Electrical engineer: Travis Fitzmaurice & Associates

HVAC engineer: Abossein Engineering

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